Barbara J. Haarstad

Barbara J. Haarstad, 70 of Willmar, died December 13, 2024, at Bethesda Grand in Willmar. A visitation will be from 4-7 pm. Friday, December 20, 2024 at the Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar. Private graveside services will be at Fairview Cemetery in Willmar.
Barb Jane Haarstad was born on July 13, 1954, in Willmar, the daughter of Richard and Alice (Brouwer) DeJong. She grew up in Clara City, where she graduated from high school in 1972. Barb spent her early years working at the family grocery store in Clara City.
While working at Cashwise Foods in Willmar, Barb met Steven Haarstad, who would become her husband. The two married on October 23, 1982, and their union was blessed with two children, Adam and Christine. The family made their home in Willmar, where Barb worked for Coborn's Inc. in roles ranging from pricing to liquor store management to the corporate office. After retiring in 2019, she stayed active, working part-time at Walt's as a bookkeeper-a job she loved because it kept her busy.
Family was Barb's greatest joy, and she devoted herself to them wholeheartedly. She was known for her selflessness, always putting others first. A talented baker, Barb's kitchen was often filled with treats to share. Her love of the outdoors led to years of camping adventures at Sibley State Park, Games Lake, and Green Lake City Park before settling into a seasonal campsite at Westrich RV Park in Spicer. Summers were spent relaxing by the lake, swimming with her grandchildren, and cherishing time with family. Winters brought warm escapes to Puerto Vallarta with Steven and her brother Jason and his wife Cherlynn, a cherished tradition she eagerly anticipated each year.
Barb's nurturing spirit and radiant smile left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and an adoring grandmother who never missed a chance to cheer on her grandchildren at their activities.
Barbara died on December 13, 2024 at Bethesda Grand in Willmar at the age of 70. She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Steven; her children, Adam (Pam) Haarstad of Eyota and Christine (Corey) Emslander of Sartell; her beloved grandchildren, Hudson and Haidyn Emslander; her siblings, Betty (Loren) Holter of Breezy Point, Beverly (Paul) Zupfer of Sartell, Beth (Alex) Roeder of New London, and Jason (Cherlynn) DeJong of Willmar; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Alice.
Barb's family would like to thank the staff of CentraCare Hospice and Bethesda Grand for their exceptional and compassionate care.
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